PolyJet is a high-resolution additive manufacturing technology that works similarly to inkjet document printing — but instead of depositing ink on paper, it jets and instantly cures photopolymer droplets with UV light to build 3D parts. What makes PolyJet exceptional is its ability to print multiple materials in a single print job, enabling parts with varying Shore hardness, transparency, and color gradients within the same component.
How PolyJet 3D Printing Works
PolyJet printers use an array of print heads to jet microscopic droplets of liquid photopolymer material onto the build platform. As each droplet is deposited, it is instantly cured by integrated UV lamps. The build platform lowers by one layer (typically 16-30 microns), and the process repeats until the full part is complete.
The key differentiator is the ability to jet multiple materials simultaneously — including rigid opaque materials, rubber-like elastomers, and transparent clear resins — from separate print heads. This allows for complex material combinations such as overmolded appearances, varying durometers within a single part, and parts that simulate two-shot injection molded components — all without post-processing assembly.
Key Advantages of PolyJet Technology
Multi-Material Printing
PolyJet is the only mainstream 3D printing technology that can produce parts with multiple material properties in a single build. This includes combinations of rigid and flexible materials, clear and colored sections, and parts that simulate overmolded or two-shot injection molded components — all without post-production assembly.
Ultra-Fine Layer Resolution
With layer thicknesses as fine as 16 microns, PolyJet produces parts with surface finishes that rival injection molding. Fine features down to 0.1mm are reliably reproduced, and sharp edges and small text are crisper than any other polymer 3D printing process.
Full-Color Printing
PolyJet can produce parts in full CMYK color, making it ideal for visual prototypes that need to communicate design intent accurately, eliminating the need for post-painting or spray coating.
Available Materials
| Category | Examples | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Rigid Opaque | Vero series (white, black, gray, blue) | Housing prototypes, concept models |
| Rubber-Like | TangoBlack, TangoPlus (Shore A 27-95) | Grips, seals, overmolded areas |
| Transparent | VeroClear, FullCure 720 | Lens prototypes, light pipes, fluidic parts |
| Bio-Compatible | MED610 (biocompatible certified) | Surgical guides, medical models |
Common Applications
- Consumer electronics: Realistic product prototypes with multiple textures, colors, and soft-touch elements
- Medical and dental: Patient-specific anatomical models, surgical guides, and medical device prototypes
- Automotive: Interior trim prototypes and soft-touch dashboard components
- Industrial design: Design review models with realistic material simulation and full-color aesthetics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical lead time for PolyJet 3D printing?
Standard PolyJet parts typically ship within 2-4 business days after design approval. Complex multi-material prints may require an additional 1-2 days for support removal and cleaning.
Can PolyJet produce parts with both rigid and flexible materials in one print?
Yes, PolyJet can jet multiple material types simultaneously in a single build job, producing parts with rigid sections, flexible overmolded areas, and transparent elements — all without post-production assembly.
How does PolyJet compare to SLA in surface quality?
PolyJet generally produces finer surface detail than SLA due to 16-micron layer resolution versus SLA’s typical 25-100 micron layers. PolyJet also excels in multi-material capability and full-color printing.
Are PolyJet parts suitable for end-use applications?
While not designed for high-stress structural end-use, PolyJet parts are suitable for low-volume functional prototypes, medical devices (with MED610 resin), and applications requiring specific material properties like transparency or biocompatibility.
